Winter Rentals

Winter is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors at Dows Lake Pavilion! The lake freezes over in late December, and takes us into skating season. In wintertime Dows Lake and the Rideau Canal become the "world's longest skating rink" with over 7 kilometers of groomed ice taking skater from the Dows Lake Pavilion to the National Arts Center in the heart of Downtown Ottawa.

For more information on activities that are happening at Dows Lake and along the Rideau Canal please contact the N.C.C. Website.

Any group larger than 12 people can request a group discount. In order to receive this discount you are required to contact us in advance. Information we will need is contact name, phone#/fax#/email, date requested, number in group, we will contact you and fax or email you a confirmation number.

If you do not have a confirmation number, you will not be eligible for a discount

We do not accept weekend reservations

Skates :

Dows Lake Pavilion rents Men's Skates size 1-13(with half sizes available), Women's Skates in sizes 1 - 11(no half sizes) and we also have children's skates. Our skates are of the highest quality. All of our skates are sharpened regularly to make sure you have the best time possible out on the lake.

Sleighs :

Our "Santa Sleigh's" are quite large and will accommodate two adults or three children. Our sleighs add a lot of fun to any skating trip. You can use them to carry your shoes and bags; bring along someone who doesn't know how to skate; or transport a child who's worn out by all the excitement! Sleighs are also perfect balancing tools for adults who are discovering the joy of skating. Our sleds are sturdy, made for cold weather and intense use. Many people like to bring along a blanket to help protect the riders from the chilly winter breeze.

Please Note: Hours may vary with the seasons and the weather and the last equipment rental is one hour before closing. Also, in inclement weather please call the rental office to see if they are open for business. We do not rent equipment if the weather conditions make it unsafe to do so.